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The polka dot liver and spleen: a case report
D H Van Thiel1, T Hassanein, A Gurakar
1Oklahoma Transplantation Institute, Baptist Medical Center of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City 73112.
The Journal of the Oklahoma State Medical Association
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Hepatomegaly and abnormal liver tests with inhomogeneous liver on CT scans are common in cancer patients. This case highlights a rare presentation in a healthy-appearing individual, resolving with treatment.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Oncology
Background:
- Hepatomegaly with inhomogeneous liver on CT and abnormal liver injury parameters are common clinical findings.
- Elevated canalicular enzymes, such as alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, often accompany these findings.
- Typically, these signs indicate metastatic cancer in ill-appearing patients.
Observation:
- This case presents an unusual scenario of hepatomegaly and inhomogeneous liver findings in an individual with minimal symptoms and a fit appearance.
- The presentation posed a diagnostic challenge, differing significantly from the typical patient profile.
- The patient exhibited abnormal liver injury parameters.
Findings:
- The patient's condition, despite its unusual presentation, showed a near-complete resolution of biochemical and radiological abnormalities.
- Appropriate medical therapy was instrumental in achieving this positive outcome.
- This suggests that even seemingly severe liver abnormalities in well-appearing individuals can be managed effectively.
Implications:
- This case broadens the differential diagnosis for hepatomegaly and inhomogeneous liver findings on CT.
- It emphasizes the importance of considering less common etiologies, even in fit patients.
- Successful treatment outcomes in such unusual cases highlight the potential for effective therapeutic interventions and recovery.